Productivity for LNCs is a real concern. You are always juggling different responsibilities related to your business- finances, marketing, business development and case work. How do you stay focused on what is important?
Increase your productivity and accomplish more in less time by using a technique called applied focus. Applied focus can help you avoid the little distractions that can derail your efforts at productivity.
How applied focus increases productivity for LNCs
Applied focus is a strategy that helps you multiply your productivity. Each session is 45 minutes long, with a 15 minute shift in focus. Or you can do 90 minutes followed by 30 minute shift in focus. In other words, you stop focusing intentionally on your task and do something completely different in the shift focus period.
During the focused session, though, you don’t allow anything to distract you (except a dire emergency). Phone calls are out, email is off, texting and Facebook are off limits.
Yes, you read that correctly. Are you thinking, “Yikes”?
Here are some guidelines (be sure to adjust them as necessary to fit your individual situation):
1. Open only one browser or application window at a time. So if you’re writing a blog post, only your word processor or text pad is open.
2. Keep your sessions timed. Don’t go past your 45 or 90 minute session, no matter how focused you are. You need the break. Use a cute egg timer like the one in this blog post. He makes me smile.
3. Get away from your task. Get up from your desk, walk around, get a drink or snack. Give your mind a break.
4. Be prepared ahead of time. Do your research during a different applied focus session then from the writing session. That way you’re able to concentrate on the writing alone.
5. Have a session set up for email, telephone and social media time.
Applied focus sessions can increase productivity for LNCs but it will take some getting used to. Start slowly by scheduling one or two sessions a day. Once you become used to the routine, you will notice an improvement in your concentration and productivity.
What’s next?
Learning how to focus on one task at a time takes time and commitment. In our busy LNC practices we are pulled in many directions at one time.
Focus is such an important part of how productive you are. If you can focus on one task for a set amount of time you will be more productive in a shorter amount of time than you have been. Putting aside your tendency to multitask will improve your productivity as well, since you will be able to finish one task before you move on.
Removing distractions can help you focus as well. Create an environment that you feel comfortable in, and that fits with how you work. If you’re a morning person, then focus on your work tasks, and vice versa for night owls.
Eat healthy and nutritious foods to keep your brain strong and able to concentrate. Exercise daily, meditate daily and take time to enjoy nature and your family. And watch productivity for LNCs soar.